"Nay, I know not," replied Geoffrey. "Perchance he finds it a fitting place for meditation."
With this the subject was dismissed, and the two riders urged their steeds to a brisker pace.
At length they arrived at the castle of Sir Thomas Carberry, where, on being announced, they were ushered into the knight's presence.
"Yves of Malevereux, dost say?" exclaimed Sir Thomas. "Alack-a-day that Sir Oliver should fall into the toils of such a caitiff. I know the Tyrant well, having had a slight bickering with him, not once nor twice."
"Is there indeed no means of securing my father's release save by ransom? The payment of ransom he hath forbidden," said Geoffrey.
"Perchance, should war ensue and an English army again set foot on French soil, the King might see fit to send a troop of lances and a body of archers to rid the world of the pest. Would that I could adventure myself on Sir Oliver's behalf, yet I fear that affairs of the realm will prevent my so doing. Nevertheless, I'll do my devoirs to the Lady Bertha. Convey her my most humble regards, and say that I will ride over to Warblington to-morrow morn."
"I have asked my mother to give me leave to journey to France," said Geoffrey. "Couldst thou not throw in thy weighty word for me, Sir Thomas?"
"Certes! How canst thou hope to overcome the Lord of Malevereux, Geoffrey? Nevertheless, 'tis right and meet that the son of Sir Oliver should see to his affairs at Taillemartel. There thou couldst be of service. Say no more now, but on the morrow I'll broach the matter."
"Sir, I crave your pardon and your opinion," said Oswald. "Dost think that the King will advance his claim to the French throne?"
"Without a doubt."